3 Dangers of Untreated Gum Disease

 

A study in 2012 revealed that almost half of all American adults above the age of 30 have gum disease. Gum disease or periodontal disease is the infection and inflammation of the gums that affects the soft tissue at the center of the teeth.





The good news is that this disease is treatable and can be prevented with good oral habits. However, if you’re not taking care of your teeth and gums, you risk permanent tooth damage and other serious complications that will affect your overall health.

 

Symptoms Of Gum Disease

· Swollen and painful gums

· Bleeding gums

· Blood when brushing

· Bad Breath

· Pus in the gums

· Loss of teeth

· Spaces developing between teeth




Dangers Of Untreated Gum Disease


If left untreated, gum disease can evolve into a life-threatening disease. It starts as gingivitis and later develops into aggressive periodontal disease. It requires lifelong care.

Heart Disease

According to the American Heart Association, patients who have poor oral hygiene are three times more susceptible to heart disease. This is because chronic inflammation causes the body to attack healthy cells, and thus it quickly turns into heart disease.

Diabetes

Bacteria thrive in the presence of sugar. High glucose levels in the body encourage the growth of bacteria, which attack the teeth and gums to cause gingivitis. Contrastingly, Periodontal disease increases blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of Type 2 diabetes.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is a bacteria that is present in both patients with gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis. It triggers the inflammatory autoimmune response of our body’s defense system that makes it attack healthy cells. This overactive immune system causes joint inflammation.

It is necessary for patients with gum disease to approach their dentist and quickly resolve their oral issues to avoid more serious diseases. 


 

About Advanced Dental Center

Being aware of gum disease is good, but getting an appointment with a dentist is better. It’s never too late to get a dentist appointment. Advanced Dental Center in Germantown, MD, provides dental and Gum treatments. They also provide general and cosmetic dentistry services. Schedule an appointment now.

Comments